Inter Miami’s handling of their two marquee signings, Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, has become a topic of intense discussion among fans and pundits. While Messi has been rested for several key matches, Suárez continues to feature regularly, sparking debates about the differing treatment of the two former Barcelona superstars. The decisions, however, are not arbitrary. They are part of a carefully crafted strategy by Inter Miami’s coaching staff to manage the physical and tactical demands of Major League Soccer (MLS) while maximizing the impact of their aging but still formidable stars.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi and Suárez have brought a level of excitement and quality rarely seen in MLS. Their arrival, alongside former Barça teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, has transformed the club into one of the most talked-about teams in world football. However, with Messi now 36 and Suárez 37, managing their minutes has become a critical challenge for head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino. The contrasting approaches to their involvement reflect the unique circumstances surrounding each player and the broader objectives of the team.
Messi’s occasional absences from the starting lineup have raised eyebrows, especially given his status as the face of the franchise. However, the decision to rest him is rooted in a combination of factors, including his workload, injury prevention, and the long-term vision for Inter Miami’s season. Messi’s arrival in MLS came on the heels of a grueling European campaign with Paris Saint-Germain and a triumphant World Cup victory with Argentina in 2022. The physical and emotional toll of these achievements, coupled with his age, has made it essential for Inter Miami to handle him with care.
Martino, who has a deep understanding of Messi’s needs from their time together at Barcelona and with the Argentine national team, has emphasized the importance of managing his minutes. “Leo is a player who gives everything on the pitch, but we have to be smart about how we use him,” Martino explained in a recent press conference. “The MLS season is long and demanding, and we want him to be at his best for the most important moments.” This approach has seen Messi rested for certain league matches, particularly those sandwiched between international fixtures or extensive travel schedules.
Suárez, on the other hand, has been a more consistent presence in the lineup. While he is also in the twilight of his career, his physical condition and playing style have allowed him to shoulder a heavier workload. Unlike Messi, whose game relies heavily on bursts of acceleration and intricate dribbling, Suárez’s role as a central striker requires less explosive movement. His ability to conserve energy and his relentless work ethic have made him a reliable option for Martino, even as he manages his own fitness concerns.
Another factor influencing the selection calls is the depth of Inter Miami’s squad. While the team boasts an impressive array of attacking talent, the absence of a like-for-like replacement for Messi makes his rest periods more noticeable. Suárez, meanwhile, can be rotated with other forwards, allowing Martino to maintain a balance between freshness and firepower. This tactical flexibility has been crucial in navigating the congested MLS schedule, which includes regular league matches, cup competitions, and international tournaments like the Leagues Cup.
The differing treatment of Messi and Suárez also reflects their respective roles within the team. Messi, as the creative hub and primary playmaker, is often the focal point of Inter Miami’s attacking play. His presence on the pitch demands a high level of intensity and concentration from both him and his teammates. Resting him ensures that he remains sharp and effective when called upon. Suárez, while still a key contributor, operates in a more straightforward role as a goal-scorer and target man. His ability to adapt to different tactical setups and his experience in leading the line make him a more versatile option for Martino.
The strategic management of Messi and Suárez has not been without its challenges. Inter Miami’s fans, understandably eager to see their star players in action, have occasionally expressed frustration at Messi’s absences. However, the club’s leadership has been steadfast in their commitment to a long-term approach. Co-owner David Beckham has repeatedly emphasized the importance of keeping Messi and Suárez fit and motivated for the latter stages of the season, where trophies are often won and lost.
This approach has already yielded positive results. Messi’s well-timed rests have allowed him to deliver match-winning performances in crucial games, including a stunning free-kick goal in the Leagues Cup final that secured Inter Miami’s first major trophy. Suárez, meanwhile, has been a consistent source of goals and assists, proving that age has not diminished his predatory instincts in front of goal. Together, they have elevated Inter Miami to new heights, drawing record crowds and global attention to the club.
As the MLS season progresses, the balancing act between managing minutes and maximizing impact will remain a key storyline for Inter Miami. The contrasting approaches to Messi and Suárez highlight the complexities of managing aging superstars in a physically demanding league. For Martino and his coaching staff, the challenge is to strike the right balance between short-term results and long-term sustainability.
Ultimately, the differing treatment of Messi and Suárez is a testament to Inter Miami’s commitment to building a successful and sustainable project. By tailoring their approach to the unique needs of each player, they are ensuring that their ex-Barcelona stars can continue to shine in MLS. For fans, the occasional absence of Messi may be a small price to pay for the moments of magic he delivers when he takes the pitch. And with Suárez leading the line, Inter Miami’s future looks brighter than ever.
